Sitting is the New Smoking: How Sedentary Lifestyles Fuel NCDs

Series 15 of Physical Exercise and NCDs

As the world observes the Global Week for Action on NCDs, I am reminded of how everyday choices can either safeguard or undermine our health. One of the most overlooked risks is a sedentary lifestyle.

Research shows that sitting for more than 8 hours a day can raise the risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 90%. Prolonged sitting slows metabolism, impairs blood sugar control, and strains the heart—laying the foundation for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

But here’s the good news: small, intentional changes can reverse these risks. Standing during phone calls, taking 5-minute walking breaks every 30 minutes, or incorporating stretches at your desk can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity and blood pressure. Meeting WHO’s recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly can reduce your risk of NCDs by up to 30%.

The message is simple but urgent: move more, sit less. As we unite globally to demand stronger action on NCDs, let’s also take individual action to transform our own lifestyles.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:

#ActOnNCDs #TimeToLead #LeadOnNCDs

Published by Oduor Kevin

ODUOR KEVIN is a Public Health Specialist with considerable experience in the health care industry. He has worked in various organizations, leading projects and programs aimed at improving the health outcomes of people living with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and the general population. Oduor Kevin is currently the Chief Programs Officer at Stowelink Inc, a youth-led organization with a single most focus on addressing the burden of NCDs. Oduor’s experience in project management is attributed to his work at Population Services Kenya (PSK) where he served as a member of the National Coordinating Committee for Kitu Ni Kukachora project. Further, in 2019, Oduor Kevin was appointed as Kenyatta University Campus Director by Millennium Campus Network (MCN) to supervise and lead Millennium Fellows in their Social Impact projects. During this assignment, he successfully supervised the fellows and delivered them for graduation under the banner of Millennium Fellowship.

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